In this fascinating animation from Oxford Sparks, we take a look at how statistics and computer science can be used to make machines that learn for themselves, without being explicitly programmed.

Machine learning is a burgeoning breed of artificial intelligence (AI), and it’s all around us already; on our phones, powering social networks, helping the police and doctors, scientists and mayors. But how does it work? Enjoy the video below, and visit Oxford Sparks to discover more science and research from Oxford University.

You might also enjoy the following posts about AI and AI/robotics policy:

• Brian Cox presents Science Matters: Machine learning and artificial intelligence
• MIT Media Lab to participate in $27 million initiative on AI ethics and governance
• How artificial intelligence is changing our Christmas shop
• White House report: Artificial intelligence, automation, and the economy
• White House launches public workshops on AI issues

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